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Asthma control in elderly asthmatics. An Italian observational study
M Milanese1, F Di Marco2, A G Corsico3
1Struttura Complessa di Pneumologia, Azienda Sanitaria Locale 2 Savonese, Pietra Ligure, Italy.
Respiratory Medicine
|June 25, 2014
Summary
Elderly asthma patients often have poor control, with many experiencing exacerbations. Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS) significantly worsens asthma control in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Growing elderly population (>64 years) presents challenges for asthma management.
- Asthma control in older adults requires specific investigation due to potential comorbidities.
- Understanding factors influencing asthma control in the elderly is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess asthma control levels in elderly patients (>64 years).
- To identify factors affecting asthma control in this demographic.
- To explore the prevalence and impact of Asthma-COPD Overlap Syndrome (ACOS) in elderly asthmatics.
Main Methods:
- Multicenter observational study conducted across 16 Italian centers.
- Involved 350 consecutive patients over 64 years with a physician-diagnosed asthma.
- Data collected over a 6-month period.
Main Results:
- Over one-third of elderly asthmatics on GINA step 3-4 therapy had poor asthma control (Asthma Control Test score ≤19).
- 29% of patients had ACOS, characterized by chronic bronchitis or impaired lung diffusion.
- ACOS patients exhibited significantly lower Asthma Control Test scores and higher exacerbation rates compared to non-ACOS asthmatics.
Conclusions:
- Coexistence of COPD features significantly impairs asthma control in elderly patients.
- Specific evaluation for COPD in elderly asthmatics is essential for effective management.
- Identifying ACOS is critical for improving outcomes in older adults with asthma.
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